MILWAUKEE, WI, Dec. 11, 2024 – Evan Bahr, a senior at Marquette High School, has been named the American Heart Association Milwaukee 2024 Leaders of Impact™ winner for his work driving equitable cardiovascular health in the community. In Milwaukee County, life expectancy varies by 13 years,[1] which can often be caused by social drivers of health, deeply rooted inequities related to public policies, institutional practices, cultural representations and other norms which often reinforce inequities in health.

The highest life expectancy in the county is 89 years, with a low of 65.9

“Evan and all of our nominees' steadfast efforts are helping to ensure everyone across the Milwaukee area has equitable opportunities for a longer, healthier life,” Milwaukee American Heart Association Executive Director Katie Connolly said. “By ensuring access to quality healthcare and addressing health disparities we are strengthening our collective future, creating a healthier, more vibrant community for generations to come.”

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.1 In addition, an aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people are expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to new published projections from the American Heart Association. 

During the last seven weeks, Bahr participated in a fundraising competition alongside four other Milwaukee-area professionals. Bahr was named the 2024 Leaders of Impact winner after he raised the most funds.

For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has driven change by removing barriers to health, investing in groundbreaking research, educating health care professionals and patients, and advocating for healthy policies.

Leaders of Impact launched on Oct. 17 in hundreds of cities across the nation and culminated on Dec. 4. Each nominee’s participation is focused on opportunities to be a changemaker with a shared purpose to raise critical awareness and fund the mission of the American Heart Association.

Other local nominees included:  

  • Caitlyn Getzloff, Riley Construction
  • Dr. Tammy Kindel, Medical College of Wisconsin
  • Christina Robotka, BSI/Smart Spaces
  • Hayley Zingsheim, ProHealth Care

For more information about Leaders of Impact and a list of all the 2024 nominees, please visit leadersofimpact.heart.org.

 

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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.  

 

For Media Inquiries:
Dan Truttschel: dan.truttschel@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org